Tamil University - Tanjore

The origins of the Tamil language stretch back thousands of years, and the first known use of the language is from Tholkappiyam, which was written in the first century BC. The credit for developing and establishing Tamil literary works goes to the Pandya kings for organizing Tamil Sangams. Some sources suggest that the etymology of Tamil comes from ‘Tam-mil’ meaning “self-speech”.

Tanjore's name comes from the demon "Tanjan," who, after being killed there by Lord Neelamegha Perumal, a manifestation of Lord Vishnu, desired that the city bear his name.

The vibrant Tanjavur Thalaiyatti bommai, a terracotta doll whose head dances for a long time when pushed, is a common sight on the city's pavements as you go around. Handmade dolls like this are a specialty of the area. These can be purchased as mementos for your loved ones back home.

As you stroll through the streets of the city, you'll see that the pavements are adorned with colorful Tanjavur Thalaiyatti bommais, which are clay dolls whose heads move in time when pushed. These handmade dolls are among the area's specialties. You can buy them as keepsakes for your family members back home.

You wouldn't want to Miss Tanjavur, so make plans to visit and take in its culture, way of life, and historical legacy.